What is dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic (Cosopt)?

Dorzolamide ophthalmic reduces the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.

Timolol ophthalmic is a beta-blocker that also reduces pressure inside the eye.

The combination of dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat certain types of glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye.

Dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Cosopt 2%-0.5%

What are the possible side effects of dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic (Cosopt)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although the risk of serious side effects is low when dorzolamide and timolol is used in the eyes, you should be aware of side effects that can occur if the medication is absorbed into your bloodstream.

Stop using dorzolamide ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

swelling or redness of your eyelids;

eye redness, pain, discomfort, or sensitivity to light;

drainage, crusting, or oozing of your eyes or eyelids;

wheezing, gasping, or other breathing problems;

swelling, rapid weight gain;

feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion; or

severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, cough, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Less serious side effects may include:

blurred vision, cloudy vision, double vision, drooping eyelid;

dry or watery eyes;

bitter or unusual taste in your mouth;

burning, stinging, or itching in your eyes;

cough, flu symptoms;

dry eyes;

nausea, upset stomach;

sore throat, stuffy nose;

dizziness, headache; or

stomach or back pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic (Cosopt)?

Do not allow the dropper to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use any other eye medication unless your doctor has prescribed it for you. If you use another eye medication, use it at least 10 minutes before or after using dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic. Do not use the medications at the same time.

Dorzolamide and timolol ophthalmic can cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.